Sabarimala Gold Theft: Smart Creations CEO, Jeweler Arrested by SIT

• The Special Investigation Team (SIT) arrested Pankaj Bhandari, CEO of Smart Creations, and Ballari-based jeweler Govardhan in the Sabarimala gold theft case.
• Gold was allegedly removed from Dwarapalaka idol plates and Sreekovil doorframes during electroplating by Smart Creations in 2019.
• First accused Unnikrishnan Potty admitted handing over 400+ grams of gold, obtained during electroplating, to Govardhan.
• Over 400 grams of gold were seized from Govardhan’s jewelry shop following a search by police.
• Bhandari and Govardhan are the eighth and ninth individuals arrested; they will be presented before the Vigilance Court in Kollam for remand.

Why It Matters: SIT makes key arrests, including a CEO and jeweler, in the ongoing Sabarimala gold theft probe.